Advocates 4 Blind Cats

Our Advocates 4 Blind Cats Program was established to rescue/rehab/adopt blind cats who would otherwise be euthanized in local shelters/pounds. The program also provides education on how to care for blind cats.

SUPPORT OUR ADVOCATES 4 BLIND CATS PROGRAM

By becoming a monthly sponsor of our Advocates 4 Blind Cats program, you can help us save the lives of blind cats in desperate need. As a loyal sponsor you will receive a monthly email with photos/updates on blind cats who are being currently helped at A4A because of your kindness & support. Becoming a monthly sponsor of this program truly saves lives. Thank you so much for your support!

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ADVOCATES 4 BLIND CATS – FAQ

*WHAT CAUSES CATS TO GO BLIND?

Some cats are born blind. Other cats become blind due to infections that were left untreated prior to rescue. Still other cats may go blind due to age. While the reasons vary, it’s important to remember that blind cats can live happy, healthy, quality lives when provided with proper care and ongoing love.

*WILL A BLIND CAT GET ALONG WITH A SIGHTED CAT?

Yes! It is important to remember, when introducing a new cat – whether sighted or blind – to a resident cat…it takes time & patience on everyone’s part! Hissing and growling are normal and to be expected during the transition phase. CLICK HERE to learn how to introduce a new cat to your home. CLICK HEREto learn how to correct common cat behavior issues.

*WHY DO YOU HAVE A PROGRAM THAT SPECIFICALLY HELPS BLIND CATS?

Our Advocates 4 Blind Cats Program was established to rescue/rehab/adopt blind cats who would otherwise be euthanized in local shelters/pounds. The program also provides education on how to care for blind cats. In addition to our Advocates 4 Blind Cats program, we also offer many other programs to help pets in our local area, such as: low cost spay/neuter for cats, A4A Dayton Pet Food Pantry for cats and dogs, rescue/rehab/adoption program for all cats…and more. Find more info on our life-saving programs via our website: www.Advocates4Animals.com

*WHAT TYPE OF LITTER DO YOU RECOMMEND FOR BLIND CATS?

We recommend using a large, uncovered litter box and Dr. Elsey’s Cat Attract litter, HERE’S WHY. This type of litter is not only great when introducing a new cat to your home, it’s great to use long term: high-quality, low dust and cats love it.

*ONCE I ADOPT A BLIND CAT, CAN I MOVE MY FURNITURE?

It’s important to know that your blind cat will need time to adjust and figure out the new arrangement if you move some furniture around on occasion. If possible, try not to move furniture frequently as blind cats “mind-map” the layout of their home. Be patient and give them time if/when you do move a piece of furniture to a new location. IMPORTANT: Please keep their food/water bowls and litter box in the same area, always.

*WHAT TOYS ARE BEST FOR BLIND CATS?

Blind cats are just like sighted cats – and they will have individual preferences for the types of toys they most enjoy (just like humans, they all have different personalities, likes/dislikes). However, in our experience at A4A, we have found that most enjoy toys that make noise (balls with bells in them, mouse toys that rattle, etc.) Many also enjoy open cardboard boxes to play in (what cat doesn’t like a good shoe box!?). And all cats tend to enjoy scratching posts.

*WHAT CAN I DO TO HELP MY NEWLY ADOPTED BLIND CAT ADJUST TO OUR HOME?

CLICK HERE to learn how to introduce a new cat to your home. In addition, you can help your blind cat adjust to his/her new home by starting him/her in a room of their own (the room where their food/water and litter box are located). Spending time sitting on the floor and talking to your cat will help them adjust, too. ***Find additional important & helpful tips, HERE and HERE and HERE!

*HOW SHOULD I APPROACH A BLIND CAT?

Blind pets startle more easily, so always speak to your cat before petting him/her to avoid scaring your cat or being accidentally nipped or swatted in reflex. Use a soothing voice and always a gentle touch.

*WHY IS IT IMPORTANT FOR MY BLIND CAT TO BE AN INDOOR CAT?

Blind cats memorize the layout of your home. They know they are safe indoors. It is important to keep blind cats indoors only, as going outdoors poses many risks such as: getting lost, falling victim to drivers/vehicles, being preyed upon by other animals (dogs, fox, owls and other wildlife), etc. Under supervision you may consider allowing your blind cat to visit your outdoor screened in porch (being sure to check that the area is safe and secure prior to the visit) – or you may open a window (with a secure screen) and place a cat climber or ramp next to the window as another way to allow them to enjoy the scent of the outdoors.

*CAN A BLIND CAT BE LEFT AT HOME ALONE IN THE SAME MANNER AS A SIGHTED CAT?

Yes, blind cats can be left at home just as sighted cats, while you’re away at work, etc. Just as with sighted cats, it is important to be sure there are no open doors and nothing the cat(s) can get into that may cause issues (the cords on window blinds, etc.).

*ARE THERE ANY SPECIFIC HEALTH PROBLEMS THAT BLIND CATS ARE MORE PRONE TO?

That depends on what caused them to go blind. If what caused the cat to go blind was a common health issue that had been left untreated prior to rescue, so long as that condition has been treated and cured (generally with medication from the veterinarian), your cat likely won’t have any further health issues due to their lack of sight. Read more on this topic, HERE.

*CAN BLIND CATS HAVE A HAPPY, QUALITY LIFE?

Absolutely! We have rescued countless blind cats from shelters/pounds since our start of A4A in 2002. All of the cats have lived happy, healthy, quality lives. It’s important to follow proper introduction procedures when introducing a blind cat to your home. It’s also important to communicate with your cat (i.e., have a noise or sound – or word, that let’s them know you’re there and that they’re safe). It’s also important to keep your home safe and secure (no doors left open to the outdoors, etc.). When these measures are taken, blind cats – like sighted cats – can live long, happy, healthy, quality lives. Find more info/tips HERE and HERE.

*I CAN’T ADOPT A BLIND CAT, BUT I WOULD LIKE TO SUPPORT THIS PROGRAM. HOW CAN I HELP?

By becoming a monthly sponsor of our Advocates 4 Blind Cats program, you can help us save the lives of blind/visually impaired cats in desperate need. As a loyal sponsor you will receive a monthly email with photos/updates on blind & visually impaired cats who are being currently helped at A4A because of your kindness & support. Becoming a monthly sponsor of this program truly saves lives. Sponsorships start at as little as $10/month. Or, you may choose to make a one time donation to the program, HERE. Thank you so much for your support! (*View photos of just a few of the *many* blind cats we’ve saved at A4A since 2002…pictured below are: Anastasia, Millie, Gordie, Nina, Mona, and Helen)

Advocates 4 Animals, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. Our mission is to end feline neglect and homelessness in Greene County, OH through a variety of programs such as our Pet Food Pantry, Spay It Forward Program, Feral Cat Program and our Rescue/Adoption Program.

All donations are tax-deductible and go directly to the animals. Every dollar donated truly makes a difference in helping to save a life in urgent need. We believe that every life matters. Thank you for your kindness, compassion and support of animals in need.